Berger heads for Portsmouth

Portsmouth have signed Patrik Berger following the Czech international’s departure from Liverpool.

The 29-year-old, whose contract had expired at Anfield, had been linked with a switch across the Pennines to Leeds but Pompey manager Harry Redknapp has moved in quickly to strengthen his squad as they prepare for Barclaycard Premiership football.

Redknapp confirmed tonight the Nationwide Division One champions had completed their first foray into the transfer market since the end of the season, with Ipswich midfielder Matt Holland also close to making the move to Fratton Park.

Redknapp was delighted with the capture of Berger as he told Sky Sports News: "Patrik's a quality player, free - and the type of player who'll bring good experience to Portsmouth.

“I had a bit of competition for him but he’s looked round the area today and is very happy to join us.

“I think he spoke with Leeds and another couple of clubs were interested – so they tell me.”

The Pompey boss revealed that his son Jamie, now at Tottenham but a team-mate of Berger’s at Anfield, played a part in the deal.

He continued: “I had a lot of help from Jamie, who’s played alongside him, but to be fair Patrik’s not been difficult to deal with.

“He got offered another contract at Liverpool and has taken a massive cut in wages to come here – but he wants to come here and play.

“I’ve convinced him he can play a big part in helping us maintain our Premiership status next year and he’ll be delighted if he can do that.”